What type of vulnerabilities does vulnerability scanning typically identify?

Vulnerability scanning primarily identifies potential weaknesses in software and systems. This is accomplished by systematically examining an organization's IT assets, including software applications, operating systems, and network devices, to detect known vulnerabilities such as outdated software, misconfigurations, and security flaws.

This process helps organizations understand where they might be at risk from cyber threats and provides a foundation for remediation efforts. By identifying vulnerabilities that are specific to software and systems, organizations can prioritize their security measures and patch or mitigate these vulnerabilities effectively.

While other types of vulnerabilities, such as end-user behavior, physical security, and network configuration mistakes, can also pose significant risks, they are typically outside the primary focus of automated vulnerability scanning tools. Such tools are designed to analyze system-level and application-level vulnerabilities rather than user behavior or physical security issues. Thus, focusing on the weaknesses in software and systems aligns closely with the primary objectives of vulnerability scanning.